Tran Ngoc Hieu, 22 years old, a student from the talented mathematics bachelor of science program, recently graduated as valedictorian from the University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, with a cumulative GPA of 3.95/4. This score is the highest in the history of the Faculty of Mathematics - Mechanics - Informatics since the university adopted the 4-point grading scale.

Hieu previously received news of a full scholarship from the Fondation Sciences Mathematiques de Paris, which provides 1,150 Euro per month. This scholarship will support his master's program in basic and applied mathematics at Sorbonne Paris Nord University (USPN) in France.

Tran Ngoc Hieu. Photo: Duong Tam

Hieu recounted that his love for mathematics developed naturally. His parents exposed him to the subject extensively, and he continuously participated in math competitions from elementary school through middle school. This consistent engagement steadily increased his interest in the subject.

Upon being admitted to Hanoi - Amsterdam High School, Hieu decided to pursue mathematics at the university level. Therefore, despite achieving an IELTS score of 8.5 and winning a national second prize in mathematics, he did not consider studying abroad or other options. Instead, he resolutely applied to the University of Science to delve deeper into the subject.

Hieu, who admitted he was not the smartest in his class, determined that dedicating sufficient time to his goals with a positive mindset was important. Although he experienced stressful periods with dense homework, Hieu viewed this as "positive pressure," motivating him further.

The talented mathematics bachelor of science program had only six students. This small class size allowed Hieu to easily connect with everyone, facilitating discussions on classroom knowledge and the completion of major mid-term and final assignments together.

"We share common goals, making it easy to support each other," Hieu observed.

Additionally, the Hanoi native had many opportunities to participate in exchange programs and research activities. Last year, for instance, Hieu attended the International Summer School of Mathematics at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) for about two weeks. There, he exchanged expertise with students from various countries and listened to professors present their research directions and interests.

By his third year, Hieu began scientific research on a topic related to complex analysis, with his group winning a second prize at the school level.

Although there were many research paths, ranging from applied problems for businesses to theoretical mathematics, Hieu chose the theoretical direction to delve into the fundamental issues of mathematics. Following his teachers' suggestions, Hieu decided to study in France.

In his application, he detailed his future study and research plans, considering this the most important section.

"I do not have many specific research results to list, but I have a clear and serious plan for this path," Hieu stated. "Perhaps that helped me receive the scholarship."

Additionally, Hieu achieved several university-level accomplishments, including a first prize in the National Student Mathematics Olympiad for both Calculus and Algebra, and a third prize in the Mechanics Olympiad.

Regarding foreign language proficiency, Hieu maintained an IELTS score of 8.5 since 11th grade. He attributed this to habitually "talking to himself," posing questions and answering them in English, and using English in his mathematics studies and research.

Associate Professor, Doctor Ngo Quoc Anh, Head of the Faculty of Mathematics - Mechanics - Informatics, noted that Hieu did not immediately stand out due to his gentle and quiet nature. However, his learning environment and capabilities quickly led his teachers to recognize him as an exceptional student.

Doctor Quoc Anh recalled a discussion about a difficult question during an Analytical Exercise class, where Hieu volunteered to present his findings. Although he could not fully answer the initial question, his approach to the problem and proposed solutions clearly demonstrated his aptitude for research.

In late august, Hieu will travel to France to begin his master's program. The Hanoi native hopes to earn a doctoral degree before returning to Vietnam.

"I want to research and teach at the University of Science when I return," Hieu shared.

Duong Tam